Legal Definitions - interim relief

Interim relief is a type of temporary help or support that is given to someone while they wait for a final decision or solution. It can be financial aid provided by the government to those in need, or it can be a court order that provides immediate relief before a final decision is made.

For example, if someone is being evicted from their home, they may ask the court for interim relief in the form of a temporary restraining order to prevent the eviction until a final decision is made. Another example is when a person is seeking a court order for specific performance, such as asking a contractor to complete a construction project. The court may grant interim relief by ordering the contractor to stop work until a final decision is made.

Interim relief can also be used in a settlement agreement, where the defendant agrees to take remedial measures instead of paying damages. For instance, a company accused of employment discrimination may agree to provide sensitivity training to its employees as therapeutic relief.